In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, peanut butter, hay bales, paper plates and skid steers were just a few of the essentials Black Mountain Home for Children, Youth, and Families needed. Located in the Swannanoa Valley, our campus — home to nearly 200 children each year — was left without electricity, running water or phone service. The storm uprooted trees, flooded cars and caused a landslide that destroyed 10 buildings, including our dining hall. But amidst the devastation, something incredible happened — help showed up.

Without even having a way to reach out for help, people arrived, chainsaws in hand, to clear debris. Others brought generators and fuel, Starlink for communication, and nonperishable food items. We received cleaning supplies, feed for our farm animals and recreation items for our kids. Financial support came in from near and far, allowing us to begin recovering.

We took the first steps toward recovery, but the road ahead is still long. One loss we’re working to overcome is our kitchen. More than just a place for meals, our dining hall was the heart of our Culinary Arts Apprenticeship Program, where our older youth earned certifications that made jobs more accessible to them. After the storm, many feared their dreams were swept away. But with the support of our caring community, we are determined to ensure their futures are bright.

Our goal is to secure a mobile kitchen so students like Mike, who dreams of becoming a chef, can keep learning. Without our Independent Living Program, many of our youth would face the hard reality of aging out of care without support. This program, however, gives them a stable home and an opportunity to gain the job skills they need for a successful future.

Thank you for being part of our story of resilience, recovery and renewed hope for children who have been removed from their homes due to neglect, abuse and other traumas.

Please follow our journey and help bring this kitchen to life if you feel moved to do so.

Go to BlackMountainHome.org and follow us on social media.

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